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How to check if an app or program is installed in Windows 11

Richard
Written by
Richard
Jun 29, 2026 Updated Aug 12, 2026 2 min read
How to check if an app or program is installed in Windows 11
How to check if an app or program is installed in Windows 11

Checking if an app or program is installed in Windows 11 takes just a few clicks using the built-in Settings app . This central list shows every piece of software on your PC, including apps from the Microsoft Store and games from launchers like Steam.

Press the Win plus I to open Settings , pick Apps, and then select Installed apps to view the complete inventory. You can scroll through the list or use the search box at the top to find a specific program right away.

⚡ Quick Answer

Open Settings , navigate to Apps, then click “Installed apps” to see a complete list of your programs. You can also check the Start Menu for frequently used applications.

How to Check What Apps Are Installed in 🪟 Windows 11

Step 1See Your Installed Apps List

The ‘Installed apps’ list in Windows 11 Settings acts as the primary location for auditing computer software. This section displays a complete register of every package present on the system.

  1. Click the Start button . This is the Windows logo, usually in the bottom-left corner. Click it.
  2. Open Settings. After clicking Start, you will see options. Look for the gear icon. Click it to open Settings . You can also press the Windows key + I keys on your keyboard. This opens Settings faster!
  3. Go to Apps. In Settings, find and click on “Apps.” This is where you manage your software.
  4. Choose Installed apps. In the Apps section, click on “Installed apps.” (In older Windows versions, this might be called “Apps & features”).
Windows 11 Settings app showing the list of installed applications.
Windows 11 Settings app showing the list of installed applications.

The Windows 11 Apps & features list shows installed programs. This extensive inventory displays all software on a computer, which grows with continued PC use.

What You Will See:

Applications populate the screen here alongside their specific names. Version numbers and disk footprint data also appear alongside entries, serving as an official record of system contents.

Windows 11 'Installed apps' list in Settings showing program names.
Windows 11 'Installed apps' list in Settings showing program names.

Step 2Check the Start Menu

The Windows 11 Start Menu offers a quick way to see many of your installed programs. It displays your most frequently used apps first, followed by a full alphabetical list of all other software you've added to your PC.

  1. Click the Start button again.
  2. Look through the "Most used" and alphabetical list. When the Start Menu opens, you might see "Most used" apps at the top. Below that, you will see a full alphabetical list of programs and apps with a Start Menu shortcut.

The quick check method finds programs users access often on a Windows 11 computer. This starting point helps users open a program they know is installed, saving search time.

Reference:

Summary

Reviewing installed software takes seconds using either the Installed apps list in Settings or the alphabetical Start menu.

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Tags: #Windows 11
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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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